How does Masterlink do this?

Much of the success of the Masterlink programme is the result of the work of the coordinators, who work very closely with the hosts, apprentices and education providers in their region.

But it is the basic structure of the Masterlink programme that takes away all the hassles of having an apprentice for the host, with Masterlink actually employing the apprentices and consequently having responsibility for all the time-consuming processes and compliance requirements.

Masterlink will normally carry out all the screening and aptitude testing of prospective apprentices, finding the right person for the right host, and helping with induction programmes.

Once a match is made, the regional coordinator sits down with the host and apprentice on the first day. They outline what the programme requires of both, help set goals and milestones for the four years of the apprenticeship, and further. They also provide a timetable of the regular, scheduled meetings with both, together and separately.

As the employer Masterlink, is responsible for the wages, ACC, PAYE, GST and all other HR obligations, provides mentoring for the apprentices and support for the hosts, and ensures the young people are meeting all the requirements of their apprenticeship.

Apprentices with the highest skills and greatest potential are identified early in their apprenticeship. From day one we set the apprentice up with a career plan. This plan spans 6 years with Masterlink, with the first goal being to achieve National Certificate in year four and the possible options of Drainlaying, Roofing and Certifier in years 5 and 6.

Masterlink guides them through the Apprentice programme, regularly reviewing targets with them to ensure goals are always being met.

These elite apprentices are given additional support and access to extra training and development opportunities, to give them the skills to set up in business for themselves.